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Thursday, May 31, 2012

Many of us have them. They sit on the coffee table, on the bottom of a side table or finally get moved to a bookcase somewhere. But, stacking your favorite large books to provide height, personality and diversity to a space and grouping is a perfect decorating idea. Afterall, these books are essentially art in themselves! Add some flowers for color, a painting or print, and one other stylish item for your perfect vignette.

{images above at home of Erika Bretchel of Small Shop}

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﻿﻿﻿﻿Purchased Gilded Mint painting in the home of Jennifer Willis, owner of Virginia Haskins & Company.

Her Etsy shop has loads of great vintage finds for this exact setting, from book ends to brass accents.

And, I personally have my eye on this gem. 22kt gold with turqouise as the ideal accent piece. I can see this next to a Gilded Mint painting, a vase of pink peonies and a few stacked design books. LOVE!

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

An entertaining must these days is a bar cart or bar trolley. This is no tea cart mind you! Whether you are putting beverages, flowers or gift favors in them, they are mobile and just adorable. You can use as an accent furniture piece in an entryway for books and keys, as a bedside table or to hold lotions and makeup in the bath. Vintage or new, these add a touch of class to your home interior.

Oh so pretty! Pink and orange pop.

Bath accessory. {via Home & Leisure South Africa}

So elegant and rich looking. Just used a serving tray and stand. Painting via etsy.

{via Decorista}

If you checked out my post on Gallery Art, you'll see Anna Wintour was way ahead of us
all (isn't she always working at Vogue?) with her bar cart in sharp silver.

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Gallery style groupings are popping up in homes everywhere. No longer just a set of kid or wedding photographs, or child artwork on the fridge, these groupings can have a mix of black and white photographs, paintings or prints. It's your chance to personally express yourself and your style...no longer relegated to just one picture or painting. Laying the artwork out on a floor, bed or table to view your different options before hanging will help. HGTV recommends starting with two to four pieces hung in the center at the same height to establish your anchor or focal point and fill in from there. If you are doing this over a sofa or furniture piece, it's recommended to leave at least 6-8 inches between the piece and your first artwork. Here are some gallery favorites.

Blue walls with gold and black.

Different mirrors can also be grouped to create their own gallery display.

Good variety and pink/orange ikat chairs.

A staircase is a perfect space for a gallery wall.

And finally, a mix of photos, mirrors and lettered art. Great mix on striped walls.

And, let's be honest, even the fashion queen herself gave herself a little gallery wall...centered with

Monday, May 28, 2012

In the spirit of Memorial Day, beach vacations, the coast, barbeques, sun and vacations, I thought I'd highlight a gorgeous home on Kiawah Island, SC. Just down the road, Kiawah is one of my favorite places to run, ride a bike or lunch overlooking the Ocean Course where the 2012 PGA Championship will be held this summer.

You would think this is something out of the Hamptons until you notice the palm trees and palmettos!

Friday, May 25, 2012

Designers and savy home decorators are starting to use chandeliers as the color statement in the room. No longer just hanging there looking pretty, chandeliers are adding some pop to a room. Pink, turquoise, lavender, you name it.

Thursday, May 24, 2012

You may think this post is about sitting on a stool in your yard, or something to perch your tushie on while gardening, but think again. Garden stools are very popular in interiors as side tables and extra seating, especially when space is a factor or the need for mobility. I will be purchasing one here soon for my living room, and have come across some great pieces. They run the gamut on style and price, but my final pick is stylish and affordable!

A locale for those seeking sophisticated art and inspiration for their busy lives. Based in Charleston, SC, and embellished with trends and glamour acquired from travel all over the world. Lacquer your life with style!